WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden has announced an ambitious commitment to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the United States by over 60% by the year 2035. This pledge aligns with his efforts to solidify his impact on combating global warming, even in light of President-elect Donald Trump’s intentions to reverse much of Biden’s climate agenda once he assumes office next month.
Biden’s new target surpasses a prior objective focused on halving carbon emissions by 2030 and aims for the U.S. to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions economy-wide by 2050. As part of the United Nations’ 2015 Paris climate agreement, the new goals, known as Nationally Determined Contributions, have been officially submitted by the U.S. administration.
Specifically, the initiative aims to cut net emissions by 61% to 66% from 2005 levels by 2035. In a video statement, Biden expressed pride in what he describes as “the boldest climate agenda in American history.” He emphasized the administration’s commitment to ambitious goals, which include the deployment of 30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy and the conservation of at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. Additionally, the administration has implemented stringent new standards aimed at reducing air pollution from various sources, including vehicles and power stations, and has enacted unprecedented investments in climate and clean energy initiatives.
As Biden prepares to transition out of office, Trump is poised to enact executive orders aimed at dismantling Biden’s climate initiatives while promoting a vision of “energy dominance” on a global scale. Trump has shifted his rhetoric, no longer dismissing climate change as a hoax, but now referring to the Democrats’ climate initiatives as a “green new scam.” He is expected to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris agreement once again and repeal provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act that focus on electric vehicles and renewable energy, including offshore wind projects.
In response to Trump’s anticipated policies, aides to Biden have suggested that the influence of his administration reaches beyond the presidency, as various states and local governments continue to pursue clean energy initiatives. John Podesta, a senior advisor on international climate policy, contended that American climate leadership is defined by efforts at local and state levels across the nation. Podesta mentioned that leaders in cities and states can demonstrate ongoing commitment to fighting for a better environmental future.
Trump’s spokesperson has touted the Republican’s first term achievements in producing affordable energy and stable jobs while significantly reducing U.S. carbon emissions. She asserted that if reelected, Trump would offer clean air and water alongside economic growth.
While a global decline in carbon emissions was observed in 2020 mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic impact, the U.S. Climate Alliance—a bipartisan group of governors advocating for climate action—has pledged to work toward Biden’s new goals regardless of federal support.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized that climate-conscious governors intend to continue pursuing these objectives, affirming their commitment to keep the U.S. on a trajectory toward a cleaner future. New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to protect public health and the environment while fostering economic growth.
Biden characterized the new target as ambitious, projecting it would create numerous high-paying jobs while offering cleaner energy and a healthier environment. He expressed confidence in American innovation and ingenuity, framing the endeavor as an opportunity for transformative change over the coming decades.
Accomplishing this target will necessitate extensive changes across various sectors, including energy generation, transportation, and industry. Significant increases in renewable energy sources like wind and solar power and substantial reductions in emissions from fossil fuels are integral to this plan. Specifically, Biden indicated that the U.S. aims for at least a 35% reduction in methane emissions from 2005 levels by 2035, which is vital for addressing immediate warming concerns.
Debbie Weyl, acting director of the World Resources Institute, remarked that while the new emissions target might be on the lower end of scientific recommendations, it is also realistic if a range of policies is implemented effectively over the next decade. She stressed that assertive actions at the state and city levels will be crucial for success, emphasizing the need to expedite renewable energy deployment, modernize the electric grid, and decarbonize heavy industries.
This nonbinding pledge serves as a vital component of the Paris Agreement, which requires countries to periodically submit updated climate goals every five years. As the upcoming deadline approaches in February 2025, other nations like Brazil and the United Kingdom have already submitted their proposals.
Given the U.S.’s significant role in global emissions as the largest oil producer and historical polluter, environmental leaders have highlighted the responsibility of the country to advance climate initiatives despite political challenges. The president of the Natural Resources Defense Council described the new goals as encouragement for local leaders and business executives who back climate progress, asserting that regardless of political changes, the growing momentum for clean energy is unstoppable.
